7 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Professional Organiser

Making the decision to hire a professional organiser is a significant step toward transforming your space and lifestyle. To help you make an informed choice, here are the 7 most crucial questions you should ask your potential organiser – along with straightforward answers from our perspective.

1. What is your specific organising process and methodology?

Our approach begins with a thorough consultation to understand your lifestyle, pain points, and goals. We then create a customised organisation plan that considers your space, budget, and timeline. Unlike one-size-fits-all solutions, we believe in developing systems that work with your natural habits and preferences. We'll walk you through each step, from decluttering to implementing organising solutions, and teach you how to maintain the systems we create.

2. How long will my project take, and what factors might affect the timeline?

The duration varies significantly based on your space's size and current condition. A DIY Blueprint (virtual consultation) would take place on an hourly basis, while a Refresh Blueprint (dedicated space/zones such as single wardrobe/kitchen-pantry/home-office etc.) typically takes half a day or a full-day session. A Makeover Blueprint (complete transformation) might require multiple sessions spread across more than one day. 

Factors that can extend the timeline include: 

• The volume of items to sort through, 

• Decision-making speed about what to keep or discard

• Any custom storage solutions that need to be ordered and implemented. 
  

We'll provide a detailed timeline estimate after our initial consultation.

3. What are your rates, and what exactly is included?

Our comprehensive packages include online/virtual consultations, on-site/hands-on organising work, customised storage solutions planning, and maintenance training. We offer flexible sessions ranging from hourly consultations to half-day and full-day transformations. Contact us for a personalised quote based on your specific needs and project scope.

Additional costs might include storage containers, speciality organisation products or additional consultation – but we'll always discuss these recommendations and their costs upfront. We provide a detailed quote after the discovery call, with no hidden fees.

4. How do you handle confidential or sensitive items?

Client confidentiality is paramount in our business. We sign confidentiality agreements before beginning any project and treat all client information and possessions with absolute discretion. Our team is thoroughly vetted and trained in handling sensitive documents, valuable items, and personal belongings with the utmost care and professionalism.

5. How involved do I need to be in the process?

While we can handle much of the physical organising independently, we do need your involvement in key decision-making moments such as decluttering, especially during the initial sort and purge phase. Your input helps us create systems that truly work for you. You can choose to be non-involved in the hands-on organising work while remaining available for questions and decisions as needed.

6. Do you provide post-organisation support or follow-up services?

Organisation is an ongoing process, not just a one-time solution. We offer various levels of post-project support to ensure your success. This includes a complimentary follow-up consultation two weeks after project completion to address any challenges you've encountered. We also offer maintenance packages for clients who want regular support to keep their systems running smoothly. Additionally, all our clients receive 30-day e-mail support.

7. How do you help ensure the organisation systems stay maintained?

Sustainability is key to our approach. We don't just organise and leave – we teach you how to maintain the systems we implement. This includes creating labelled zones, providing written guidelines, and offering maintenance tips specific to your space and lifestyle. We also offer follow-up sessions and maintenance packages for clients who want ongoing support.

Remember, a professional organiser is not just someone who creates neat spaces – they're a partner in transforming your environment and habits. The right organiser should make you feel comfortable, understood, and confident in their ability to help you achieve your organisation goals.

Take time to interview potential organisers and trust your instincts. The answers to these questions should give you a clear picture of their professionalism, experience, and whether their approach aligns with your needs. When you find the right match, you're not just investing in an organised space – you're investing in a less stressful, clutter-free, and more efficient lifestyle.